Introduction to pdwm & phyOS-dwm
Overview
pdwm and phyOS-dwm are modified versions, or "forks," of a minimalist window manager known as suckless dwm. They are situated in the same repository, offering users extensive customization options without having to compile configuration files manually. A noteworthy inclusion in this project is dwmblocks, which is used to manage status bars and does not require a separate download.
For users who wish to experience full animation support, it is recommended to use the phyOS-picom fork, as other picom forks may not work seamlessly with this setup.
The Evolution and Difference
Originally, the project started as phyOS-dwm, which directly modifies the base dwm, embedding features like dwmblocks, customizable via the libconf library. This allows users to manage status bar blocks more conveniently using .cfg files, with more than ten blocks available for customization. It's worth mentioning that these features are accessible for base Arch Linux installations as well.
The transition from phyOS-dwm to pdwm represents a shift towards a more flexible configuration process. Traditional dwm setups required recompilation for any configuration changes, which could be cumbersome for users seeking to fine-tune their systems. pdwm mitigates this by using a shared library system that allows for easy updates and modifications to configurations without needing administrator privileges.
Configuration and Tools
The tool to manage and configure pdwm is a Python-based program called pdwmc, which acts as the main control hub for managing configurations. This tool provides both terminal and QT app interfaces for user convenience, allowing dynamic modification of attributes like appearance, keys, rules, and more.
Installation Guide
For users running Arch-based Linux distributions, integrating pdwm into your system involves adding the specified repository into your /etc/pacman.conf and following installation steps involving keyring setup and package installation. Following these steps properly ensures that your system is configured to support the advanced features offered by pdwm and phyOS-dwm.
Utility and Usability
Users of pdwm benefit from a rich set of keybindings designed to improve workflow efficiency. Familiar operations like switching between windows, adjusting system volume or brightness, and executing applications are all achievable with simple key combinations. Additionally, mouse actions are also well-integrated, providing graphical ways to manage windows and system options.
In Summary
pdwm and phyOS-dwm offer a robust and configurable environment for users seeking a lean yet versatile window management solution. The transition to pdwm represents an exciting development in user experience by refactoring configuration management into a more accessible and user-friendly process. Whether you're an Arch Linux aficionado or simply looking for a powerful window management tool, pdwm provides a compelling solution.